Emet-Selch angles his face away from his friend's touch. He would rather Hythlodaeus not see what pain welled in his eyes, even if it's made plain in his voice.

He lets the emotions soothe themselves into quiet composure. Given their customs in terms of such strong displays of sentiment, it would be proper to temper the reactions accordingly. Even if some of the raw untamed feelings remain out of reach.

"And I will walk this path with you at my side, to wherever it may lead." At least now he would not have to tread it alone.